30 August 2015

I am no gamer and I initially had no idea what Disney Infinity is all about. The last time I held a Play Station was probably back when I was in high school. But as a mom of a boy, I definitely got excited upon learning more about this latest game. Basically, Disney Infinity is an interactive gaming platform where players have unprecedented freedom and endless opportunities to create stories and play experiences starring the beloved characters from across the worlds of Disney. It is the only game where you can play with Disney, Pixar, and Marvel characters together in one experience.

A few days ago, Disney Interactive announced that the Star Wars™ universe will join Disney, Disney•Pixar and Marvel in Disney Infinity 3.0 – the latest installment of the best-selling “hybrid toy / video game” of 2014. What is awesome about including Star Wars in the latest Disney Infinity installment is that it is a franchise that covers all ages - not only today's kids, but also 80s and 90s kids.

Disney Infinity 3.0 promises to deliver kids and families with a wider breadth of content and variety of gameplay than ever offered from Disney Infinity, including:

•Three Star Wars Play Sets, one set in the timeline of Episodes I-III, the second set during the original trilogy, Episodes IV-VI, and the third based on Star Wars™: The Force Awakens™

•Additional Play Sets offering distinct gameplay and environments, including a Disney•Pixar Play Set based on the upcoming film Inside Out, and a Marvel Play Set featuring Hulkbuster Iron Man, Ultron, and other Marvel characters

•More figures of fan-favourite characters from across The Walt Disney Company, like Mickey and Minnie, Sam Flynn and Quorra from Tron: Legacy, Mulan and Olaf, among many others.

Tons of characters to choose from!

Ahsoka Tano and Anakin Skywalker character figures are included in the Disney Infinity 3.0 starter pack

Each of the Star Wars Play Sets offers distinct experiences, with varied gameplay, environments and characters. The Star Wars™: Twilight of the Republic Play Set takes place in the height of the Jedi’s powers, where players will use the Force™ and Lightsabers™ in epic battles and master their combat skills alongside Ahsoka Tano, Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Yoda and Darth Maul. The Star Wars™: Rise Against the Empire Play Set will take players on galaxy-spanning missions with Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia Organa, Han Solo, Chewbacca and Darth Vader, piloting X-wing fighters or the Millennium Falcon to fight stormtroopers, or exploring and partaking in land-based missions on planets like Tatooine, Hoth, and Endor. Additionally, fans will have the unique opportunity to play with all of the Star Wars characters in all of the Star Wars Play Sets.

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse

Anger, Disgust, Joy, Sadness, and Fear of the movie, Inside Out

Olaf!

Disney Infinity 3.0 will also introduce an all-new, 3-D Toy Box Hub that will make it easier for players to choose from a wider selection of gameplay experiences — including platform, racing, and farming simulation games. Two new multiplayer Toy Box Expansion Games will bring action-adventure gameplay in Toy Box Takeover and kart racing in Toy Box Speedway, where kids and families can play with popular Disney, Disney•Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars characters together in a structured setting. Basically, this is where you could play all characters since Play Sets are limited to the particular characters specified for each of them.

Enjoy kart racing in the Toy Box Speedway

During an event held last week, we were joined by Mr. Jason Moffitt, a producer at The Walt Disney Company in its Interactive Media division to discuss in detail what the Disney Infinity 3.0 has to offer - from the Play Sets, Toy Box Mode, Toy Box Expansion Games, and more. He also mentioned that Disney Infinity 3.0 is being developed by Avalanche Software in partnership with Ninja Theory, Sumo Digital, Studio Gobo and United Front Games to improve your gaming experience. Disney Infinity 3.0 will be available for the PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment systems, Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system and Xbox 360 games and entertainment system from Microsoft, the Wii U™ system from Nintendo, PC and iOS and Android devices.

The Disney Infinity 3.0 Starter Pack will be available from 1 September at a suggested retail price of PHP 2,999.00. The Disney Infinity 3.0 Starter Pack will include the Disney Infinity 3.0 Base and video game software, the Star Wars: Twilight of the Republic Play Set, Ahsoka Tano and Anakin Skywalker character figures, and a web code card that unlocks content for PC and mobile devices. Other Disney Infinity 3.0 Play Sets, figures, and Toy Box Expansion Games will be sold separately.

For additional information, please visit www.disney.com/Infinity and www.youtube.com/disneyinfinity, join the Disney Infinity Facebook Community (www.facebook.com/disneyinfinity) and Google+ community (plus.google.com/+DisneyInfinity), and follow us on Twitter (www.twitter.com/disneyinfinity) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/disneyinfinity).

29 August 2015

I have noticed lately that more and more couples have worked on personalizing their weddings. They make sure that each and every detail of their wedding should be in line with the color motif or the theme of their wedding. There is just this implied need to make everything perfect and organized for these modern couples. I guess this obsession shown by couples to personalize their wedding is due to the latest trend in documenting the wedding nowadays. What used to be a simple wedding photo before has now become quite complicated with the way weddings are documented lately, by way of the same day editing of the wedding video, prenuptial photos, and more. Going back, this particularity to detail, of course, is not limited to the venue, flowers, and other decor, but also to the clothes worn during the celebration.

Bridesmaids’ dresses have indeed become better and trendier as time passes by. More couples have definitely decided to come up with the same color and design for their bridesmaids to have that uniform look, by having a designer made them or by buying them from a local boutique, than have them pick out dresses of a particular color which eventually do not really match one another. While purchasing designer dresses and buying from local shops seem to be plausible options, another option available for couples is to have their bridesmaid dresses made by an online retailer.

Online shopping for bridesmaid dresses is definitely one of the best options for a couple, especially those who are on a limited time and budget. With just a click of your mouse, you could pick, order, and pay for your dream bridesmaid dresses without hassle. No need to drive to and from the designers’ shop or boutique. All you have to do then is to wait for the items to arrive at the time specified during the placement of your order.

Another perk of shopping online is the number of choices that you have. There are currently tons of online retailers that offer bridesmaid dresses and one of them is Pickweddingdresses. Bridesmaid dresses at Pickweddingdresses are definitely affordable and not as expensive as designer bridesmaid dresses. You do not need to sacrifice quality and style because these dresses are available on a made to order basis only and are available in a huge selection of colors to match your wedding theme and motif. Visit Pickweddingdresses to see their entire bridesmaid dresses collection!

27 August 2015

Chocolates have the power to speak to the soul. They symbolize so many things and emotions, as well as narrate different stories and time. Essentially, these are the reasons why they have been a favourite subject in film, literature and music.

The two adaptations of Roald Dahl’s 1964 masterpiece Charlie and the Chocolate Factory could easily fall under the most sought after works about chocolate. The 1971 adaptation starred Gene Wilder and was directed by Mel Stuart, while the 2005 version directed by Tim Burton featured Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka.

In the movie, one can find many interpretations of chocolates. The chocolate bar with a golden ticket signifies Charlie’s hopes and dreams, as well as the idea that good things come unexpectedly in small packages.

From personal desires and dreams, chocolates are depicted as treats with magical powers in the 2000 adaptation of the novel Chocolat. It narrates the story of a young mother Vianne Rocher, played by Juliette Binoche, who arrives at Lansquenet-sous-Tannes, a subdued village, with her six-year-old daughter.

There, Vianne opened a small chocolate store called La Chocolaterie Maya. Her confectionary masterpiece began changing the lives of the townspeople who used to give up worldly or sensual pleasures during Lent. Through chocolates, she was able to help a troubled woman gain confidence, and a violent husband turn into a better man.

Meanwhile, the romantic and passionate symbol of chocolates is depicted on Laura Esquivel’s Like Water for Chocolate, which had its film adaptation in 1992. The title came from the Spanish line “como agua para chocolate,” which expresses anger or strong desires.

From novels and films, chocolate also comes as a favourite symbol in music. One example is Chocolate by the famous English rock band The 1975, who already rocked the grounds of Manila twice – March 2014 and January 2015.

Romance, fun, passion, adventure, dreams and pleasure—chocolates can really mean a lot of things. However, one chocolate brand knows that there is a chocolate for every personality, for every mood, and for every occasion.

Premium artisanal chocolate Villa del Conte

Premium artisanal chocolate Villa del Conte offers a wide range of sweet treats, from praline balls and praline sticks, to chocolate bars and candy coated ovicinis. And with every chocolate, comes a special message that you want to say.

Visit Villa del Conte at Greenbelt 5, Century City Mall, Shangri-la Mall, Resorts World, Alabang Town Center, and Robinson’s Magnolia. You can treat yourself or surprise someone today. As what the 1994 film Forrest Gump says, “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get!”

For bulk orders, please contact 893-2575 or 621-6101. Go to http://www.villadelcontecioccolato.com/ to know more about Villa del Conte, or follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VillaDelContePh, Instagram: http://instagram.com/villadelconte, and Twitter: https://twitter.com/VilladelConte.

20 August 2015

McDonald’s gives customers another snacking experience they can look forward to with the return of the Shake Shake Fries!

Well-loved for satisfying cravings, Shake Shake Fries can now be enjoyed by McDonald’s customers in three (3) exciting flavors—the spicy yet oh-so-sweet BBQ, the melt-in-your-mouth doubly-delicious Cheesy Butter, and the savory flavor of cheesy tomato Pizza—making each snacking experience different every time.

Customers can get a free upgrade to Shake Shake Fries with every purchase of any medium or large value meal with fries. They can also opt to go for the perfect sweet and savory combination of Shake Shake Fries together with the refreshing and creamy Coke McFloat. For those who prefer to enjoy it on its own, Shake Shake Fries ala carte is also available for only P65.

Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer! The Shake Shake Fries is available in all McDonald’s stores nationwide through Dine-In, Take-Out, Drive-Thru and via McDelivery.

18 August 2015

Essilor Vision Foundation, under the Essilor Group, is focused on the importance of healthy vision in sports and in helping individuals with intellectual disabilities work towards generating acceptance and inclusion in the community. True to this commitment, the Essilor Vision Foundation backs the Philippine co-chairs to the 2015 Special Olympics Social Impact Summit.

Social Impact Summit, formerly known as Global Youth Activation Summit, is a six-day international convention that enjoins 120 youth leaders from 30 countries to generate critical social change around the pressing issues facing people with intellectual disabilities. It will be held in conjunction with the Special Olympics World Games at Los Angeles, California.

Special Olympics Philippines national executive director Kaye Samson

Philippine representatives Brina Maxino and Sashi Montaňa proactively shared their experiences as delegates in the 2013 Global Youth Activation Summit in South Korea. Through the summit, they learned how to educate and motivate people into advocating acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities. Because of their active involvement in this advocacy for years, they have been elected as co-chairs for this year’s Social Impact Summit.

“Every person with disability can change the world, and I am very excited to be part of this journey,” said Brina Maxino. “We look forward to meeting other young people whose ideas can help people with intellectual disabilities develop their abilities, nurture their talents, and live with dignity and respect,” added Sashi Montaňa.

Lions Club of Manila representative Valentin Tio (left) and Chairman George Yuquico

Brina and Sashi’s presentation “Eye Can Play: A Healthy Eyeffair” uses an “edutainment” approach to help Special Olympics athletes, their caregivers and their families learn more about the importance of healthy vision. Supported by Essilor Vision Foundation, Eye Can Play has notched the Top 5 spot in the summit, granting $3,000 for the Philippines and earning accolades from the organizers and sponsors of the 2015 Special Olympics.

“Essilor Vision Foundation has been a proud sponsor of Special Olympics for more than a decade by providing prescription eyewear, protective eyewear, as well as visual counselling for Special Olympics athletes,” said Essilor marketing manager Jinky Navo. “We are honored to be supporting the 2015 Social Impact Summit particularly with our Filipina co-chairs in the lead.”

13 August 2015

My family and I seem to be into spontaneous road trips recently. A few weeks back, we went to Infanta, Quezon for a day trip and here are some of the photos that we took during the trip. Honestly, these pictures do not give justice to the actual view the Marikina-Infanta Road has to offer. Everything was extremely picturesque! And whenever you see clouds around you, it feels like you're in heaven. It's kind of scary though to travel at night and whenever it's raining because there aren't lights in the mountains and the place is very prone to landslide. Nevertheless, this piece of heaven is only a few hours away from Metro Manila which makes the trip definitely worth it! Enjoy!

Had breakfast at Pranjetto Hills

Hello, Infanta!

Queen Cakes

Swimming at 1pm is not a great idea. Got my feet burned from the sand. The little boy enjoyed though.

Boats to Polilio Island

Jariel's Peak! We were supposed to have lunch here. But it was packed with riders. We had to come back in the afternoon. We had fried frog legs and a rabbit dish.

"On earth there is no heaven, but there are pieces of it." -Jules Renard

12 August 2015

Summer is almost over in some parts of the world and the season of fall is fast approaching. Although I have not personally experienced such here in my country, I believe that it is one season where things completely shift. And such fashion and trend shift is felt all over the world. As regards preference to clothing and makeup, women during fall would prefer classy and dark shades or those which emanate the season. Of course, this preference not only applies to women’s everyday wardrobe but I believe this also applies to formal dresses for special occasions.

I do not think it would be suitable to don a bright colored dress during fall. It is nice to reserve such shades for spring and summer. While it is not recommendable to go with an entirely serious look by preferring a plain, dark colored formal dress, I suggest that it would be best to incorporate some texture to give off a different vibe. For example, lace has a powerful means to make anything look romantic. With the perfect trim on the right part of the dress, a simple dress could instantly turn into a romantic dress.

Romantic dresses tend to give one a sweet and dainty look that would surely capture everyone’s eyes. Monochromatic lace dresses are my personal favorites because they look simple yet effortlessly elegant. What I love most about cocktail dresses with lace is that they are very versatile. They can also exude a subtly sexy vibe depending on the style of the dress. Mini dresses with lace details could make one look confusingly romantic and girly, yet seductive and glamorous.

Shopping for lace formal dresses is now simple with online shops, such as GBridal. Shopping online has its perks since your choices are surely not limited and your budget would never be compromised. Of course, the quality of the dresses produced is always guaranteed. For more choices, check out GBridal’s complete range of cocktails dresses.

11 August 2015

Here’s another dining offer that’s sure to give you and your family and friends reason to come together over a great meal.

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the country’s preferred credit card is extending a 25% discount at one of the newest popular buffet destinations in the metro, Four Seasons Hotpot City.

Designed with a lavish, modern market interior, Four Seasons Hotpot City marries the hotpot and buffet concepts by serving a wide variety of fresh, healthy ingredients for customizable dishes.

From now until September 30, 2015, pay with your Citi credit card to get the exclusive 25% discount on regular weekday lunch buffet at Four Seasons Hotpot City in SM Mall of Asia Complex. To avail of the offer, you must dine in groups of 4 adults or more and settle the bill with your Citi credit card.

“We are very happy to highlight another dining offer from our delectable lineup of 25 irresistible deals as part of our anniversary celebrations. This time, we are teaming up with Four Seasons Hotpot City to give our clients an amazing hotpot buffet experience they can share with their loved ones. And since Filipino celebrations aren’t complete without a hearty, indulgent feast, this dining offer is truly ideal for everyone,” shares David Stoughton, Credit Payment Products Director for Citi.

Four Seasons Hotpot City is the latest concept restaurant to come from the same group as Vikings, another Citi partner, also currently extending a 25% discount. Designed with a lavish, modern market interior, Four Seasons Hotpot City marries the hotpot and buffet concepts by serving a wide variety of fresh, healthy ingredients for customizable dishes. In addition to the standard meat, seafood and vegetable stations seen in many hotpot restaurants, Four Seasons Hotpot City features sections for appetizers, desserts, premium food and Japanese cuisine, plus a bar for refreshments.

Appetizer Station includes a selection of Japanese sushi and sashimi.

Fresh Vegetables Station – sample the variety for your hotpot dish.

Drinks are part of the buffet cost, and the Bar Station offers a wide array of selection.

Make sure to leave room for sweets – check out the Dessert Station too.

"It is an honor to partner with the country’s’ leading foreign bank in providing a delightful dining experience to everyone. This collaboration is a great opportunity for us to showcase the hotpot concept to a wider audience and offer a wide variety of international cuisines from around the globe,” says Vikings Group Marketing Director Charles Lee.

Besides this irresistible Four Seasons Hotpot City offer, Citi has more tempting dining, travel and accommodation rewards as part of its year-long celebration, such as:

Indulge in 25% off on daily buffet for groups of 5 paying adults or more at the SM Jazz Mall Makati, SM Marikina, SM City BF Paranaque, and SM Davao branches of Vikings.

You can also get to dine for free when you PayLite a minimum single-receipt of P25,000 anywhere until October 31, 2015. Cardholders can choose to redeem their free buffet for one at any Vikings Buffet or Four Seasons Hotpot City outlet, both valid for weekday lunch and dinner, or NIU by Vikings, valid for weekday lunch, until January 19, 2016, excluding holidays and blackout period (from December 15, 2015 to January 3, 2016)

Get 65% off for a 3-day, 2-night stay at Bellevue Resort Bohol for stays until December 19, 2015.

Grab 50% off for a 3-day, 2-night stay at Discovery Shores Boracay, 60% off for an overnight on Sundays to Thursdays at Discovery Country Suites, a special rate of P8,000 NET for an overnight stay during weekends at Discovery Primea, 50% discount for an overnight stay at Discovery Suites, and 50% off for an overnight stay at Club Paradise Palawan, all valid for stays until December 30, 2015.

Get P2,500 off on your first booking at Airbnb through the Airbnb app or www.airbnb.com/citiphusing your Citi card.

You can also enjoy exclusive discounts at Agoda, as much as 10% on select weekends, through http://agoda.com/Citibankph.

For that sweet tooth, get 6 free Original Glazed doughnuts at Krispy Kreme when you buy 6 Original Glazed doughnuts using your Citi Rewards points.

With Citi, enjoy exclusive privileges no other financial partner can offer. For more information on Citi’s 25th anniversary deals, visit www.citibank.com.ph/25years or call the 24-hour CitiPhone Hotline at 995 9999.